Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club: A Legacy of New Orleans Mardi Gras
In the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana, few traditions are as vibrant and storied as the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club. Founded in 1916, this fraternal organization is the city's largest predominantly African American carnival organization. Every year on Mardi Gras Day, the club hosts the Zulu parade—also known as the Krewe of Zulu—bringing a unique blend of satire, community spirit, and cultural heritage to the streets of New Orleans.
From their iconic grass skirts to the highly coveted hand-painted coconuts, the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club is more than just a parade; it is a symbol of resilience and social evolution within the city's complex history.
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Key Facts
- Founded: 1916 (110 years ago).
- Location: New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Signature Throw: Hand-painted coconuts.
- Unique Tradition: The King of Zulu is chosen via an election process.
- Pioneering Role: The first New Orleans krewe to feature a queen in a parade (1948).
- Inclusivity: One of the first parading organizations to be racially integrated.
The Origins and Evolution of Zulu
The roots of the organization date back to 1908, when John L. Metoyer and members of a New York mutual aid society called "The Tramps" attended a vaudevillian comedy show titled There Never Was and Never Will Be a King Like Me. Inspired by a skit featuring characters in grass skirts and black makeup, Metoyer reorganized his marching troupe into the "Zulus." By 1909, the first Zulu king, William Story, appeared with a lard-can crown and a banana stalk scepter.
The organization officially incorporated in 1916, establishing bylaws that focused on a social mission of benevolence and goodwill. Over the decades, the club expanded its traditions. In 1933, the Lady Zulu Auxiliary was formed, and in 1948, Edwina Robertson became the first Queen of Zulu, marking the first time a queen was featured in a New Orleans parade.
Navigating Social Pressures and Civil Rights
The 1960s brought significant challenges as civil rights activists questioned the parade's imagery. Protesters, writing in The Louisiana Weekly, argued that the caricature of "uncivilized savages" did not represent the dignity of the Black community. This pressure led to a sharp decline in membership, dropping to just 15 members by 1965.
The club maintains that its use of black makeup was never intended as "blackface"—which they define as a derogatory representation of Black people as buffoons—but was instead a way to bypass Southern laws that prohibited Black Americans from wearing masks. Tensions eventually eased when local civil rights leaders Ernest J. Wright and Morris F.X. Jeff Sr. joined the club, leading to a resurgence in membership and the return of traditional attire.
A Commitment to Integration
Unlike many "old-line" Carnival Krewes, Zulu never practiced racial discrimination. Any man, regardless of race, ethnicity, or religion, was welcome to join. This commitment was solidified in 1973 under President Roy E. "Glap" Glapion Jr., who actively recruited professionals and businessmen from all backgrounds, making Zulu the first racially integrated parading organization in the city.
The Tradition of the Zulu Coconut
While other krewes threw expensive glass necklaces in the early 20th century, the working men of Zulu sought an affordable yet unusual alternative. They began purchasing coconuts from the French Market, which were later painted and adorned starting in the late 1940s.
The tradition faced a legal crisis in 1987 when insurance coverage was lost due to lawsuits over coconut-related injuries. However, the tradition was saved in 1988 when Governor Edwin W. Edwards signed Louisiana State Bill #SB188, known as the "Coconut Bill," which removed liability for injuries resulting from the throws.
The Zulu Monarchy
The selection of the King of Zulu is distinct from other krewes. Rather than a secret appointment, the King is chosen through an election voting process. Candidates must campaign for the position, often hosting parties for other members to secure their votes.
The Queen of Zulu also holds a place of honor. A cherished tradition involves the club meeting the Queen at the airport. Because most Queens are New Orleans residents, they often travel to a nearby location and fly back into the city specifically to facilitate this ceremonial welcome.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1916 |
| Primary Event | Zulu Parade (Mardi Gras Day) |
| Famous Throw | Hand-painted coconuts |
| Leadership Selection | Democratic election for the King |
| Key Milestone | First integrated parading organization (1973) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Zulu members throw coconuts?
In the early 20th century, Zulu members could not afford the expensive glass necklaces thrown by other krewes. They chose coconuts from the French Market as a cheap and unique alternative, which eventually became a beloved tradition.
How is the King of Zulu chosen?
Unlike other Mardi Gras krewes, Zulu selects its king through an election. Potential kings must campaign and solicit votes from other members of the club.
What is the significance of the "Coconut Bill"?
Signed into law in 1988 by Governor Edwin W. Edwards, the Coconut Bill removed liability for injuries caused by thrown coconuts, allowing the tradition to continue after insurance issues had previously halted it.
Has the Zulu parade faced criticism?
Yes. In the 1960s, civil rights activists boycotted the parade, arguing its imagery was a caricature. Additionally, some South Africans have accused the parade of cultural appropriation and being insensitive to Zulu culture.
Is the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club racially integrated?
Yes. Zulu has never had a policy of racial discrimination. In 1973, it became the first parading organization in New Orleans to be actively and racially integrated.